# Pokémon Horizons – The Search for Laqua

Pokémon Horizons – The Search for Laqua, known in Japan as Pocket Monsters: Terastal Debut and Pocket Monsters: Rayquaza Rising is the twenty-seventh overall season of the Pokémon animated series and the second season of the new Pokémon series titled Pokémon Horizons: The Series, known in Japan as Pocket Monsters (ポケットモンスター, Poketto Monsutā). It is directed by Saori Den and produced by OLM. The season began broadcasting in Japan on TV Tokyo on April 12, 2024, and was distributed by Netflix in the United States, beginning on February 7, 2025.
The season contains two story arcs. The first arc, "Terasutaru Debyū" (地上波デビュー, lit. Terastal Debut), which makes up the first 22 episodes, focuses on Liko, Roy, and Dot as they attend Orange Academy in the Paldea region from Pokémon Scarlet and Violet to learn about the Terastal phenomenon and battles Gym Leaders under Terastal Training. Starting with the 23rd episode is the second arc, "Rekkūza Raijingu" (レックウザライジング, lit. Rayquaza Rising), which deals with Rising Volt Tacklers to search for the remaining Six Heroes from Lucius and eventually go on the path to Laqua. Meanwhile, the organization Explorers continue to follow the group, seeking for Liko's pendant, which is a Terapagos.

## Episode list

| Jap. overall | Eng. overall | No. in season | English title Japanese title | Directed by | Written by | Animation directed by | Original release date | English release date |
| 1280 | 1269 | 1 | "Welcome to Naranja Academy! (How Thrilling! Orange Academy)" Transliteration: "Dokidoki! Orenji Akademī" (Japanese: ドキドキ！オレンジアカデミー) | Makoto Nakata | Dai Satō | Toshiko Nakaya, Yūhei Takaboshi, Izumi Shimura, Sakai Hiromi, Chiaki Kurakazu & Shūji Tanaka | April 12, 2024 (2024-4-12) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Liko, along with Roy and Dot, enroll in a Terastal Training course at Naranja Academy to learn about the Terastal phenomenon in Paldea. They meet Clavell and Geeta, who introduce them to the curriculum involving Terastallization and battling Gym Leaders. During their tour, they encounter Nemona, who Liko and Roy have met before, and members of the Elite Four. In their first class, they learn about their Gym Leader assignments. Liko also reunites and battles with her classmate Ann. As they prepare to leave, they encounter members of the Explorers posing as two students and one teacher. Meanwhile, Friede sets out to pursue his own journey. |||||||||
| 1281 | 1270 | 2 | "Put Your Heart Into It! (Liko and Nyarote, Put All Your Heart Into It)" Transliteration: "Riko to Nyarōte, Kokoro o Komete" (Japanese: リコとニャローテ、心をこめて) | Directed by : Hiromichi Matano Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kureha Matsuzawa | Makoto Shinjō | April 19, 2024 (2024-4-19) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot arrive in Cortondo for Liko's Terastal battle against the local Gym Leader, Katy. They encounter Coral, who challenges Liko to a Pokémon battle. However, Katy suggests a cake-baking contest instead. After successfully baking a cake, Liko battles Katy and loses. Despite the loss, Katy praises Liko's synergy with Floragato and lets her pass her assignment, explaining that winning isn't the only measure of success. |||||||||
| 1282 | 1271 | 3 | "Sparkle! The Glow of Flame and Art! (Shine! The Sparkle of Fire and Art)" Transliteration: "Kagayake! Honō to Āto no Kirameki" (Japanese: 輝け！炎とアートのきらめき) | Yūji Asada | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | May 3, 2024 (2024-5-3) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Roy, Liko, and Dot travel to Artazon for Roy's Terastal battle against Brassius. Roy has a battle with Nemona, but loses due to the rain affecting his strategy. They participate in the town's art festival, creating art that reflects their bond with Pokémon. Roy eventually challenges Brassius and wins. Impressed with Roy's skills, Brassius rewards him with a stamp for completing his task. |||||||||
| 1283 | 1272 | 4 | "Dot and Nidothing (Dot and Gurumin)" Transliteration: "Dotto to Gurumin" (Japanese: ドットとぐるみん) | Directed by : Yasuhiro Noda Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano & Yūji Asada | Naohiro Fukushima | Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Natsumi Hattori & Masaya Ōnishi | May 10, 2024 (2024-5-10) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Dot and her friends arrive in Levincia for her Terastal test. To prepare for her battle against Iono, Dot has a practice battle with Roy. She struggles due to camera anxiety and loses. Dot feels more comfortable being in front of cameras while dressed as Nidothing and debates on whether she should face the public as Nidothing or her actual self. After regaining her confidence, she eventually decides to face her test as herself, impressing her friends and earning respect from Iono. |||||||||
| 1284 | 1273 | 5 | "Trending Terastallisation! Dance, Dance, Quaxly! (Shine, Terastal! Dance Dance Kuwassu!!)" Transliteration: "Haero Terasutaru! Dansu Dansu Kuwassu!!" (Japanese: 映えろテラスタル！ダンス・ダンス・クワッス！！) | Directed by : Takashi Kojima Storyboarded by : Noriaki Saitō & Yusuke Oshida | Naohiro Fukushima | Yusuke Oshida, Keita Hagiwara, Megumi Matsumoto, Shin'ichi Yoshino & Shūji Tanaka | May 17, 2024 (2024-5-17) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| With her Terastal battle against Iono imminent, Dot reflects on battling true to herself and spends the night refining her plan. The next day, Dot and Iono have their battle, but unexpected events unfold, as the electricity in the city is abruptly shut off. Dot improvises by Terastallizing Quaxly into a Water type, surprising Iono. Dot winds up losing the battle, but despite the loss, Iono allows Dot to pass her test. |||||||||
| 1285 | 1274 | 6 | "The Flower Tower (A Prickly Nyarote?! The Mysterious Flower Pillar)" Transliteration: "Togetoge Nyarōte!? Fushigi na Hanabashira" (Japanese: トゲトゲニャローテ！？不思議な花ばしら) | Directed by : Ayumi Moriyama Storyboarded by : Kazuaki Mōri | Deko Akao | Chiaki Kurakazu, Toshiko Nakaya, Yūhei Takaboshi, Yūki Kitajima & Prommee Saksit | May 24, 2024 (2024-5-24) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Dot, Liko, and Roy head to a river to observe wild Pokémon for a report. Liko struggles to connect with Floragato, who becomes upset and runs off. Dot notices Floragato's mood and suggests investigating a local phenomenon called the "pillar of petals" to cheer them up. As Liko searches for Floragato, she falls into a ravine. After helping out a group of Toedscool and witnessing the "pillar of petals", Liko and her Pokémon are rescued. Despite forgetting to capture the moment on camera, Liko decides to illustrate it for her report, grateful for the bond strengthened with Floragato through the experience. |||||||||
| 1286 | 1275 | 7 | "Wattrel's High Wind Warning! (Kaiden, High Wind Warning!)" Transliteration: "Kaiden, Kyōfū Chūihō!" (Japanese: カイデン、強風注意報！) | Directed by : Fumihiro Ueno Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kimiko Ueno | Takashi Shinohara | May 31, 2024 (2024-5-31) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot observe wild Pokémon for reports. Roy tries to help Wattrel overcome its fear of flying. At night, Roy encounters Ryme and her Houndstone. Later on, Roy and a Capsakid become trapped on a small cliff. Roy and Capsakid are rescued with Wattrel's help, leading Wattrel to evolve into Kilowattrel in the process. Liko and Dot fail to record the evolution, leaving Roy disappointed. They continue their journey, unaware of a ghostly Pokémon in a nearby forest. |||||||||
| 1287 | 1276 | 8 | "Hatenna and the Otherworldly (Mibrim and the Unworldly)" Transliteration: "Miburimu to Konoyo Narazaru Mono" (Japanese: ミブリムとこの世ならざるもの) | Yūji Asada | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | June 7, 2024 (2024-6-7) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot venture into a forest in search of a mysterious Pokémon known as "the unworldly", which Roy had learned about earlier. They meet three classmates from Naranja Academy who have also encountered the Pokémon. The trio identifies it as Annihilape. Together, they face challenges, resolve misunderstandings with an angry group of Mankey, Primeape, and Annihilape, and restore peace. While quelling three Annihilape, Liko's Hatenna evolves into Hattrem. The group departs the forest and decides to return to Naranja Academy. |||||||||
| 1288 | 1277 | 9 | "The Treasure of Eternity (The Eternal Blessing)" Transliteration: "Towa no Megumi" (Japanese: 永遠のめぐみ) | Directed by : Yūichi Abe Storyboarded by : Noriaki Saitō | Kureha Matsuzawa | Yoshitaka Yanagihara & Masaya Ōnishi | June 14, 2024 (2024-6-14) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| Friede, studying Lucius' memoirs and Diana's diary, receives updates on repairs to the Brave Olivine from Orla. Friede decides to research Terapagos in the meantime. Meanwhile, Liko, Roy, and Dot head to Naranja Academy; Ann joins them after passing her test. Friede visits Exceed to learn about the Laquium, where he meets his former boss Cervantes and colleague Yanga. Despite setbacks, Friede confronts the guards to find an empty display case for the Laquium. Meanwhile, Amethio plans to seize Terapagos for Gibeon, remaining skeptical of Spinel's movements. |||||||||
| 1289 | 1278 | 10 | "Showdown! The Paldea Elite Four (Confrontation! The Big Four of Paldea)" Transliteration: "Taiketsu! Parudea Shiten'ou" (Japanese: 対決！パルデア四天王) | Directed by : Yoshihiko Iwata Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Naruki Nagakawa | Chiaki Kurakazu, Natsumi Hattori & Megumi Matsumoto | June 21, 2024 (2024-6-21) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| After completing their Terastal Training tests, Liko, Roy, Dot, and their fellow students return to Naranja Academy. Director Clavell announces friendly battles against members of the Paldea Elite Four. Initially worried, Dot learns they will battle in Multi Battles with their Gym Leader partners. Dot and Iono face Poppy first. Despite early setbacks, they rally and use teamwork to defeat Poppy. Roy and Brassius face Hassel next, but lose. Liko and Katy are paired together and prepare for their upcoming battle against Rika. |||||||||
| 1290 | 1279 | 11 | "Liko vs. Rika! Towards the Battle's End (Liko VS Chili! Beyond the Battle)" Transliteration: "Riko VS Chiri! Batoru no Saki ni" (Japanese: リコVSチリ！バトルの先に) | Directed by : Makoto Nakata Storyboarded by : Makoto Nakata | Naruki Nagakawa | Keita Hagiwara and Yusuke Oshida | June 28, 2024 (2024-6-28) | January 13, 2025 (UK) February 7, 2025 (US) |
| At Naranja Academy, Liko and Katy face off against Rika from the Paldea Elite Four in a multi battle. As the duel unfolds, both sides employ strategic moves and teamwork, showcasing their bonds with their Pokémon. Meanwhile, Dot wanders into the academy's library and meets Penny and a disguised Chalce, who gives Dot cryptic warnings. Liko and Katy end up losing to Rika. Later, Dot reunites with Liko and Roy and shows them the Scarlet Book, which contains a drawing resembling Terapagos. |||||||||
| 1291 | 1280 | 12 | "The Terapagos I Don't Know (A Terapagos I Don't Know)" Transliteration: "Watashi no Shiranai Terapagosu" (Japanese: わたしの知らないテラパゴス) | Directed by : Hiromichi Matano Storyboarded by : Yūji Asada | Kureha Matsuzawa | Makoto Shinjō & Rie Eyama | July 5, 2024 (2024-7-5) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Friede, Clavell, Geeta, and the kids have a meeting to discuss Terapagos. They examine sketches and discuss sightings in Paldea and the Great Crater. Geeta mentions a sighting of a Pokémon that resembles Terapagos in Area Zero, as written in the Scarlet Book. Dot shows a sketch suggesting a third form of Terapagos. They discuss Terapagos' interest in Laqua and plan to explore Area Zero with Geeta. Later, Raifort joins them and leads them to ancient ruins, where she tells them the history of Paldea. Friede connects Laqua to Laquium. At Naranja Academy, the students are assigned to battle more Gym Leaders. |||||||||
| 1292 | 1281 | 13 | "Food Fit for a Kingambit! (The Signature Pokémon is Dodogezan!?)" Transliteration: "Kanban Pokemon wa Dodogezan!?" (Japanese: 看板ポケモンはドドゲザン！？) | Yasuhiro Noda | Deko Akao | Toshiko Nakaya, Megumi Matsumoto & Kenji Katō | July 12, 2024 (2024-7-12) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Dot, Roy, and Liko arrive in Medali for Dot's Terastal Training test against Larry. They stumble upon the Treasure Eatery, a restaurant that struggles to attract customers. Dot and the others help transform the restaurant's fortunes with the new Kowtow Cleave Udon dish, featuring Kingambit's homemade udon. |||||||||
| 1293 | 1282 | 14 | "Dance, Quaxly! The Blue Medali Step! (Dance, Kuwassu! Blue Champion Steps!!)" Transliteration: "Odore Kuwassu! Aoiki Chanpuru Suteppu!!" (Japanese: おどれクワッス！碧きチャンプルステップ！！) | Directed by : Fumihiro Ueno Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Naohiro Fukushima | Takashi Shinohara | July 26, 2024 (2024-7-26) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot find Gym Leader Larry at the Treasure Eatery, where Dot's Terastal Training test begins. Despite Dot's efforts, her Quaxly evolves into Quaxwell but is ultimately defeated by Larry's Staraptor. Larry praises Dot for her strategic use of Pokémon and Terastallization, declaring her test a success. |||||||||
| 1294 | 1283 | 15 | "Roy and Fuecoco's First Snow! (The First Snow! Ho Ho Ga!!)" Transliteration: "Hajimete no Yuki! Hohhoggee!!" (Japanese: はじめての雪！ホッホッゲー！！) | Directed by : Yoshihiko Iwata Storyboarded by : Satoru Iriyoshi | Kimiko Ueno | Hiromi Sakai, Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Kenji Katō, Masaya Ōnishi, Toshinari Abe & Hiromi Niioka | August 9, 2024 (2024-8-9) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot start their journey to Montenevera and reach Glaseado Mountain. After encountering wild Pokémon in the area, they find a cabin to stay in for the night. During their search for brushwood, Fuecoco falls from the cliff and gets separated from Roy. It is only their song that helps them hear each other and brings Roy and his Pokémon back together. |||||||||
| 1295 | 1284 | 16 | "Resonating Spirits in a Challenge to Ryme! (Let Your Soul Resonate! A Challenge to Rime)" Transliteration: "Hibike Tamashii! Raimu e no Chousen" (Japanese: 響け魂！ライムへの挑戦) | Directed by : Yoshihiko Iwata Storyboarded by : Satoru Iriyoshi | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Keita Hagiwara, Chiaki Kurakazu, Natsumi Hattori & Toshinari Abe | August 16, 2024 (2024-8-16) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Roy and his friends arrive in Montenevera for his Terastal Training battle. They find Gym Leader Ryme, who is also a rapper. In his official battle with Lime, Fuecoco initially succeeds but struggles against Ryme's Toxtricity, which ultimately defeats Fuecoco. Ryme criticizes Roy's partnership with his Pokémon, declaring him a failure. |||||||||
| 1296 | 1285 | 17 | "A New Song for Fuecoco (Me and Hogator's Song)" Transliteration: "Hogēta to Boku no Uta" (Japanese: ホゲータとぼくの歌) | Yūji Asada | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | August 23, 2024 (2024-8-23) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Nemona suggests an awesome training session to complete before Ryme's second live event in the evening, involving even Liko and Dot. When they stop to rest, the group starts to ponder the questions Lime asked Roy during the battle. Roy remembers his parents—sailors who taught him to sing before they had to depart on a long voyage. After that, he sang to befriend Pokémon on his island. Realizing that, Roy trains to sing with Fuecoco and wins against Ryme in a battle against Toxtricity, thus passing his implementation test. |||||||||
| 1297 | 1286 | 18 | "Ice Battle! Cold-Eyed Grusha (Battle of Ice! The Cold-Eyed Grusha)" Transliteration: "Koori no Tatakai! Tsumetai Hitomi no Guruusha" (Japanese: 氷の戦い！冷たい瞳のグルーシャ) | Ayumi Moriyama | Naohiro Fukushima | Kenji Katō, Yusuke Oshida, Megumi Matsumoto, Toshiko Nakaya & Hiromi Niioka | August 30, 2024 (2024-8-30) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot arrive at Glaseado Mountain Gym for Liko's Terastal Training test. Liko's test against Gym Leader Grusha proves challenging, as her Pokémon struggle against both of Grusha's Pokémon. Liko loses the battle after Floragato is hit by a super-effective Ice Beam. Grusha, known for his harshness towards others, declares the test a failure and refuses a rematch, leaving Liko disappointed but accepting his judgment. |||||||||
| 1298 | 1287 | 19 | "The Approaching Shadow! (Mount Napper, the Creeping Shadow)" Transliteration: "Nappe Yama, Shinobiyoru Kage" (Japanese: ナッペ山、しのびよる影) | Hiromichi Matano Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kureha Matsuzawa | Makoto Shinjō & Rie Eyama | September 6, 2024 (2024-9-6) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot head to Glaseado Mountain, but Liko gets separated and encounters Amethio, who is seeking Terapagos. While they battle, Spinel intervenes and uses the Eternal Blessing on his Umbreon, causing it to become enraged. Terapagos then destroys Spinel's Laquium crystal, prompting Spinel to flee and trap Liko and Amethio in a cave. Meanwhile, Roy and Dot, who are anxious about Liko, face resistance from Sidian and Coral. |||||||||
| 1299 | 1288 | 20 | "Liko and Amethio (Liko and Amethio)" Transliteration: "Riko to Amejio" (Japanese: リコとアメジオ) | Makoto Nakata | Kureha Matsuzawa | Koki Yanagihara, Keita Hagiwara & Masaya Ōnishi | September 13, 2024 (2024-9-13) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| While Liko and Amethio are trapped in the cave, Amethio reveals that his motivations for seeking Terapagos and Rayquaza are tied to fulfilling his grandfather Gibeon's dream. Roy and Dot battle against Coral and Sidian, but Grusha intervenes, allowing Roy and Dot to reunite with Liko. Meanwhile, Gibeon expels Amethio from the Explorers for helping Liko and allowing Terapagos to escape. |||||||||
| 1300 | 1289 | 21 | "Infiltrating the System! Naranja Academy in Danger! (System Invasion! Crisis at Orange Academy!!)" Transliteration: "Shisutemu Shin'nyū! Orenji Akademī no Kiki!!" (Japanese: システム侵入！オレンジアカデミーの危機！！) | Kenya Kodama Storyboarded by : Shōji Nishida | Naruki Nagakawa | Masashi Ōtsuka, Mari Kobayashi, Reina Ono & Yukie Sasaki | September 20, 2024 (2024-9-20) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| The Terastal Training students return to Naranja Academy to participate in a battle tournament. Dot and Penny uncover a hacking plot organized by the Explorers' Chalce, who successfully steals computer data on Terapagos. Liko defeats Sidian in a battle, impressing Grusha, who then passes her after having failed her earlier. Liko permanently receives a Tera Orb. Later, Liko and Roy discover that they are set to face each other in the tournament. |||||||||
| 1301 | 1290 | 22 | "Shine on, Terastallization! Liko vs. Roy! (Shine Terastal! Liko VS Roy!!)" Transliteration: "Kagayake Terasutaru! Riko VS Roi!!" (Japanese: 輝けテラスタル！リコVSロイ！！) | Directed by : Yūichi Abe Storyboarded by : Mio Hidenin | Naruki Nagakawa | Yusuke Oshida, Chiaki Kurakazu & Natsumi Hattori | September 27, 2024 (2024-9-27) | February 17, 2025 (UK) |
| In the final match of the battle tournament between Liko and Roy, her Floragato and his Fuecoco engage in a back-and-forth fight. Fuecoco evolves into Crocalor mid-battle. The final clash sees Crocalor overpowering Floragato, leading to Roy's victory. Afterward, Liko and her friends reflect on their journey and prepare for new adventures. At the Explorers' base, Spinel continues to study the stolen Terapagos data, opting to keep it a secret from the other members of the Explorers. |||||||||
| 1302 | TBA | 23 | "To a New Sky! Brave Asagi!!" Transliteration: "Aratanaru Sora e! Bureibu Asagi-gō!!" (Japanese: 新たなる空へ！ブレイブアサギ号！！) | Directed by : Fumihiro Ueno Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kureha Matsuzawa | Takashi Shinohara | October 11, 2024 (2024-10-11) | TBA |
| Liko, Roy, and Dot discuss visiting Kitakami with Raifort to meet Briar, who is studying Terapagos. They reunite with the Rising Volteccers and explore the Brave Asagi's upgrades. Friede returns Lucius's belt, and the trio faces Oliva, Galarian Fire, and Laplace in battle. Afterwards, the group decides to head to Kitakami. Meanwhile, Amethio meets with his subordinates, who insist on staying with him. In Kitakami, a photographer named Sazare witnesses a mysterious shadow. |||||||||
| 1303 | TBA | 24 | "I'm a Pokémon and You're Me!?" Transliteration: "Boku ga Pokemon de, Kimi ga Boku!?" (Japanese: ぼくがポケモンで、キミがぼく！？) | Yoshihiko Iwata | Deko Akao | Masaya Ōnishi, Yūhei Takaboshi, Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Hiromi Niioka & Toshiko Nakaya | October 18, 2024 (2024-10-18) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers arrive in Kitakami to meet Briar but find Suiryoku Town deserted due to a harvest festival. At the festival, Roy and Achigator accidentally switch bodies using a mysterious device, trying to keep their situation a secret from the others. The group navigates the festival and helps others along the way. After restoring their bodies, Seille reveals that Briar is her teacher and is currently at the Illuminating Pool, which is where the group decides to head next. |||||||||
| 1304 | TBA | 25 | "Kanuchan's Hammer Wasn't Made in a Day" Transliteration: "Kanuchan no Hanmā wa 1-nichi ni Shite Narazu" (Japanese: カヌチャンのハンマーは1日にしてならず) | Yūji Asada | Kimiko Ueno | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | October 25, 2024 (2024-10-25) | TBA |
| On their way to meet Briar, Liko, Roy, Dot, and Friede encounter an Otoshidori, which drops metallic objects to startle them. Dot's Kanuchan becomes focused on improving her hammer by moulding a piece of metal, but loses it to the Otoshidori. After chasing it and retrieving the metal, Kanuchan evolves into Nakanuchan during a battle against two Otoshidori. Nakanuchan and Welkamo manage to defeat the Pokémon. |||||||||
| 1305 | TBA | 26 | "Encounter at the Illuminating Pool" Transliteration: "Terasu Ike no Deai" (Japanese: てらす池の出会い) | Directed by : Yoshihisa Matsumoto Storyboarded by : Shōji Nishida | Dai Satō | Masumi Hattori | November 1, 2024 (2024-11-1) | TBA |
| Liko, Roy, Dot, and Friede meet Briar at the Illuminating Pool after calming an aggressive Milokaross. Briar shares her research on the Terastal phenomenon, Terapagos, and her ancestor Heather's discoveries about Area Zero. She shows them the Scarlet Book and theorizes a link between the Terapagos and the Six Heroes, though she lacks details on the Rakurium. The group leaves without answers on Lucius or Terapagos' past. Meanwhile, Dot defeats Sazare in a battle and earns a photograph of Basagiri, with Sazare preparing to share her knowledge about the Pokémon. |||||||||
| 1306 | TBA | 27 | "Pursuit! The Search for Basagiri!!" Transliteration: "Tsuiseki! Basagiri o Sagase!!" (Japanese: 追跡！バサギリを探せ！！) | Directed by : Hiromichi Matano Storyboarded by : Satoru Iriyoshi | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Makoto Shinjō & Rie Eyama | November 8, 2024 (2024-11-8) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers, led by Sazare, search for Lucius' Basagiri on Tengu Mountain despite not knowing Basagiri's exact location. The group becomes separated and faces many obstacles and wild Pokémon. Liko encounters a tree with Basagiri's axe marks on it, which gives her an idea of how to track it. Dot and Sazare identify a plant and a set of rocks resembling a Dugtrio from one of Sazare's photos of Basagiri and set off for that specific location. The group finally approaches Basagiri's location, but it runs off again, with Terapagos sensing its presence. |||||||||
| 1307 | TBA | 28 | "Basagiri the Lone Warrior" Transliteration: "Kokō no Senshi Basagiri" (Japanese: 孤高の戦士バサギリ) | Ayumi Moriyama | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Keita Hagiwara, Natsumi Hattori, Toshinari Abe, Izumi Shimura & Yūki Kitajima | November 15, 2024 (2024-11-15) | TBA |
| Liko, Roy, Dot, Friede, and Sazare search for Basagiri on Tengu Mountain. After Laplace begins battling Basagiri, they learn that the two Pokémon share a past and were only greeting each other. Following a fight in a bamboo grove, they gain Basagiri's trust. It leads them to an Ancient Poké Ball and shows a vision of Lucius freeing it and inviting it on his adventure. Lucius mentions someone named Rystal, which sparks the group's curiosity. Basagiri joins them. After Sazare departs, Liko and the others return to the Brave Asagi, where they are visited by her grandmother's Ikirinko. |||||||||
| 1308 | TBA | 29 | "The Three Explorers" Transliteration: "San-nin no Ekkusupurōrāzu" (Japanese: 3人のエクスプローラーズ) | Directed by : Tsurugi Harada Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kureha Matsuzawa | Yōsuke Toyama & Katsuji Matsumoto | November 22, 2024 (2024-11-22) | TBA |
| After Liko's grandmother, Diana, returns, she challenges Liko to a battle. Liko, with her Nyarote, ends up winning the battle. Following that, Diana explains that Lucius was the founder of the Explorers and that she had searched for information on the origins of the organization. Eventually, the group returns to the Illuminating Pool, where Lucius's wife, Rystal, appears from the dead. It is then revealed that both Diana and Liko are descendants of Lucius, much to Liko's shock. |||||||||
| 1309 | TBA | 30 | "The Entrusted Future, the Shine of This World" Transliteration: "Takusareta Mirai, Kono Sekai no Kagayaki" (Japanese: 託された未来、この世界の輝き) | Directed by : Makoto Nakata Storyboarded by : Makoto Nakata & Saori Den | Kureha Matsuzawa | Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Megumi Matsumoto & Masaya Ōnishi | November 29, 2024 (2024-11-29) | TBA |
| In a flashback, Rystal runs away from three men who are chasing her, trying to take Terapagos from her. However, Lucius appears and scares the men away with his Rayquaza. Later, at a bar, they meet Gibeon, and the three embark on an adventure to find Laqua. They eventually reach Laqua, but Gibeon stays behind to research the energy emanating from the crystals. However, the energy spreads, causing all the Pokémon species to become aggressive. Gibeon falls down a hole, while Lucius stays behind and is killed by the crystals. In the present, Rystal says goodbye and returns to the deceased, leaving Terapagos in tears. Terapagos is then caught by Liko and becomes part of her team, with Diana once again leaving the group. |||||||||
| 1310 | TBA | 31 | "Sohnano? Sohdayo!" Transliteration: "Sō nano? Sohdayo!" (Japanese: ソーナノ？ソーダヨ！) | Yūji Asada | Naohiro Fukushima | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | December 6, 2024 (2024-12-6) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers meet Sohdayo, a former team member, to gather information about Entei. However, Mory is irritated by his presence due to their past history and Sohdayo's tendency to make false claims. While waiting at an oasis, the group encounters a Rikikirin and is attacked until Sohdayo arrives. Later, Sohdayo begins telling exaggerated tales about the team members. Back at the oasis, the group resolves a territorial conflict between the Rikikirin and a Cuespatra by restoring water to the oasis. Sohdayo finally confirms that Entei was spotted in Asagi City, prompting the team to set course for Johto. |||||||||
| 1311 | TBA | 32 | "Randou Returns to His Hometown" Transliteration: "Randō, Kokyō e Kaeru" (Japanese: ランドウ、故郷へ帰る) | Directed by : Fumihiro Ueno Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kimiko Ueno | Wu Xiaolai, Toshinari Abe, Toshiko Nakatani & Takeshi Kobayashi | December 13, 2024 (2024-12-13) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers arrive in Asagi City to search for Entei. Liko learns the city was named after Randou's fishing boat and discovers it's his hometown. The group meets Mamoru, who recalls the city's movie studio and the "VS Sharpedo" film series. He idolizes the hero, Ginjirou, who vanished after the series. They learn Ginjirou is actually Mighty G, whom they met earlier. Mamoru, initially in denial, accepts that Ginjirou has aged. At the Whirl Islands, Randou, disguised as Mighty G, rescues the group's Syaritatsu and Mamoru's Upah. Mamoru, realizing Randou is Mighty G, takes a photo with him. Without new leads on Entei, Mamoru shares that Entei was seen at a nearby archipelago. |||||||||
| 1312 | TBA | 33 | "A Fierce Fight Against Entei! The Noble Roar of Flame!!" Transliteration: "Gekitō Entei! Honō no Otakebi!!" (Japanese: 激闘エンテイ！炎のおたけび！！) | Directed by : Yoshihiko Iwata Storyboarded by : Noriaki Saitō | Naruki Nagakawa | Natsumi Hattori, Keita Hagiwara, Yūhei Takaboshi & Hiromi Sakai | December 20, 2024 (2024-12-20) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers continue their search for Lucius' Entei. They arrive at the site of a submarine volcano, where Entei eventually appears. The group challenges Entei and earns its respect. Liko and Terapagos try to recruit Entei, but it ignores them and joins Raikou and Suicune, forming the trio of Legendary Beasts. The group realizes that this Entei isn't Lucius' but remains amazed by the encounter. Meanwhile, Amethio seeks information about Laquium from Crave, who directs him to Gibeon. Briar contacts the group with evidence suggesting that another Entei was seen in Area Zero. With this new lead, the team returns to Paldea. |||||||||
| 1313 | TBA | 34 | "Over the Top" Transliteration: "Ōbā za Toppu" (Japanese: オーバー・ザ・トップ) | Directed by : Ayae Shinkai Storyboarded by : Shōji Nishida | Dai Satō | Yusuke Oshida, Megumi Matsumoto & Megumi Niioka | January 10, 2025 (2025-1-10) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers return to Paldea to continue their search for Lucius' Entei. Liko, Roy, and Dot request permission from Omodaka to visit Area Zero. Impressed by their determination, Omodaka decides to test their strength in battle. The trio faces adversity when their Pokémon are poisoned by Omodaka's Kiraflor. However, Liko devises a clever strategy that allows them to defeat Omodaka. Following the battle, the Rising Volteccers are granted permission to explore Area Zero. Unbeknownst to them, Sango and Onyx are assigned to monitor their actions. |||||||||
| 1314 | TBA | 35 | "Totally Awesome Pokémon in Area Zero?!" Transliteration: "Eria Zero de Oniike Pokemon!?" (Japanese: エリアゼロでオニイケポケモン！？) | Directed by : Hiromichi Matano Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Deko Akao | Hiromichi Matano, Makoto Shinjō & Rie Eyama | January 17, 2025 (2025-1-17) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers begin their exploration of Area Zero, while Onyx and Sango secretly spy on them from afar. Roy encounters a Sunanokegawa, which he mistakes for a Rarecoil with hair, and is chased away by it. Meanwhile, Sango follows him and accidentally disturbs a Sakebushippo, leading to a chaotic battle with a Idainakiba. Roy and Achigator engage in a battle with Sunanokegawa and defeat it, and Sango unintentionally captures Sakebushippo. |||||||||
| 1315 | TBA | 36 | "A Grand Battle! Earth-Gouging Fire" Transliteration: "Dai Batoru! Daichi o Ugatsu Honō" (Japanese: 大バトル！大地を穿つ炎) | Directed by : Kyōhei Sumiyama Storyboarded by : Makoto Nakata | Michihiro Tsuchiya | Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Masaya Ōnishi & Toshinari Abe | January 24, 2025 (2025-1-24) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers arrive at the site where Entei was last seen and discuss the possibility of it being one of the Six Heroes. Entei suddenly appears, but its appearance differs from the one they encountered earlier. Liko approaches it with Lucius's belt, but Entei challenges them to a battle by stealing the belt. During the battle, the group realizes that Entei is actually a Paradox Pokémon named Ugatsuhomura, not the Entei they expected. They manage to gain Ugatsuhomura's approval, and it joins them. Afterwards, Terapagos and the other five heroes summon the Black Rayquaza. |||||||||
| 1316 | TBA | 37 | "At the End of the Shining Rainbow" Transliteration: "Hikari Dashita Niji no Saki de" (Japanese: 光り出した虹の先で) | Yūji Asada | Kureha Matsuzawa | Masaaki Iwane & Izumi Shimura | January 31, 2025 (2025-1-31) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers begin their battle against the Black Rayquaza. The group struggles to land a decisive blow, with most of their Pokémon knocked out except for Roy's Achigator. Terapagos transforms into its Terastal Form and joins the battle, dealing significant damage. Achigator Terastalizes and defeats Rayquaza, and Roy captures it with an Ancient Poké Ball. With all of the Six Heroes reunited, the Rising Volteccers bid farewell to Briar and continue their journey towards Rakua, with Rayquaza leading the way. |||||||||
| 1317 | TBA | 38 | "The Truth Revealed? Amethio's Resolve!" Transliteration: "Akasareru Shinjitsu? Amejio no Ketsui!" (Japanese: 明かされる真実？アメジオの決意！) | Ayumi Moriyama | Kureha Matsuzawa | Keita Hagiwara, Natsumi Hattori, Toshiko Nakaya, Hiromi Sakai & Yoshitaka Yanagihara | February 7, 2025 (2025-2-7) | TBA |
| During a meeting between several members of the Explorers, Gibeon orders an ambush on the Rising Volteccers at Rakua, with Spinel tasked with leading the mission. Meanwhile, Amethio secretly investigates Spinel's lab and discovers his plans involving the Rakurium and a "Rakurium Sphere." The Rising Volteccers head toward Rakua, concerned about the power and scarcity of the Rakurium. Amethio learns more about Gibeon's past, including his quest for Rakurium and his ties to Lucius. As tensions rise between the Explorers, Amethio becomes determined to stop Spinel from using the Rakurium. The Rising Volteccers, misled by Rayquaza's flight, divert to Kumuri Town instead of Rakua. |||||||||
| 1318 | TBA | 39 | "The Place Where Heaven and Earth Meet" Transliteration: "Ten to Chi ga Deau Tokoro" (Japanese: 天と地が出会う処) | Directed by : Yoshihiko Iwata Storyboarded by : Satoru Iriyoshi | Naohiro Fukushima | Masumi Hattori | February 14, 2025 (2025-2-14) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers arrive in Kumuri Town in search of Rakua and Rayquaza. They meet Yuha, a local boy who blames Rayquaza for a series of events. While exploring the town, Friede learns from the town's matriarch that a mysterious explosion occurred a century ago at Kumuri Mountain. Rayquaza was seen flying away, and a long-haired man (Gibeon) appeared. Friede updates the team, revealing that Rakua lies at the "place where heaven and earth meet" on Kumuri Mountain. The group embarks on a dangerous trek up the mountain, facing various obstacles. They eventually reach a cloud-filled crater at the summit. |||||||||
| 1319 | TBA | 40 | "Arrival! The Paradise of Rakua" Transliteration: "Tōchaku! Rakuen Rakua" (Japanese: 到着！楽園ラクア) | Directed by : Fumihiro Ueno Storyboarded by : Noriaki Saitō | Kureha Matsuzawa | Tatsuya Oka, Azusa Nishimura & Takeshi Kobayashi | February 21, 2025 (2025-2-21) | TBA |
| The Rising Volteccers explore Kumuri Mountain, where they discover a lush, peaceful crater filled with Pokémon, including Legendary ones, living in harmony. They marvel at the environment, but Friede suspects that an unknown factor, possibly related to the Rakurium, is influencing it. Liko grows worried about having to say goodbye to Terapagos but is comforted by her friends. The group uncovers a hidden barrier powered by Terastal energy, which Terapagos successfully removes. Friede plans to investigate further but is confronted by Spinel, while Liko, Roy, and Dot face Sango, Onyx, and Agate. |||||||||
| 1320 | TBA | 41 | "The Rising Volteccers VS The Explorers!" Transliteration: "Raijingu Borutekkāzu VS Ekusupurōrāzu!" (Japanese: ライジングボルテッカーズVSエクスプローラーズ！) | Makoto Nakata | Kureha Matsuzawa | Yoshitaka Yanagihara, Megumi Matsumoto & Masaya Ōnishi | February 28, 2025 (2025-2-28) | TBA |
| Gibeon begins making his way to the Rakurium, eager to fulfill his wish. The Explorers confront the Rising Volteccers and reveal that they have been watching Rakua from the beginning and needed the Rising Volteccers' help to remove the barrier blocking access to it. As tensions rise, battles ensue between the two sides. Friede and Spinel engage in a double battle, with Captain Pikachu and Lizardon facing off against Spinel's Bracky and Ohbem. Meanwhile, Sango's team confronts Liko and the others. After some intense moments, the Rising Volteccers emerge victorious in both battles. Afterwards, the Rakurium shoots upwards into the sky, summoning Terapagos. |||||||||
| 1321 | TBA | 42 | "The Guidance of the Black Rayquaza" Transliteration: "Kuroi Rekkuuza no Michibiki" (Japanese: 黒いレックウザの導き) | Directed by : Kenya Kodama Storyboarded by : Hiromasa Amano | Kureha Matsuzawa | Miki Ueda, Masashi Ōtsuka, Kei Takahashi, Anri Ikumi, Yukie Sasaki, Mari Kobayashi & Takaaki Sonoda | March 7, 2025 (2025-3-7) | TBA |
| Gibeon arrives at the Rakurium site with his 10% Forme White Zygarde to excavate crystals. Zygarde transforms into its 50% Forme, and Gibeon presses on despite his physical limitations. Tensions rise when Amethio tries to stop Gibeon and challenges the ethics of Rakurium. After the Rising Volteccers and Spinel arrive, Lucius emerges from one of the crystals, revived after a century. He warns of the dangers Rakurium poses to Pokémon and ecosystems, revealing that Zygarde had been monitoring it. Gibeon insists on using Rakurium for the greater good, but Lucius and the Rising Volteccers oppose him. As the Rakurium Core activates, Lucius warns of a global disaster. Amethio and the Rising Volteccers join forces to stop Gibeon in a final battle. |||||||||
| 1322 | TBA | 43 | "The White Zygarde Causes Shock Waves" Transliteration: "Gekishin no Shiroi Zygarde" (Japanese: 激震の白いジガルデ) | TBA | TBA | TBA | March 14, 2025 (2025-3-14) | TBA |
| 1323 | TBA | 44 | "Beyond the Adventure" Transliteration: "Bōken no saki ni" (Japanese: 冒険の先に) | TBA | TBA | TBA | March 21, 2025 (2025-3-21) | TBA |

## Release

On November 20, 2024, The Pokémon Company reported that a second season of Pokémon Horizons, under the title of Pokémon Horizons: Season 2 – The Search for Laqua was scheduled for release on the streaming service Netflix. In the United States, The Search for Laqua was officially released on February 7, 2025, while in Canada, the season began airing on Cartoon Network and Télétoon the following day on February 8 of that year. The Search for Laqua was released earlier in the United Kingdom with episodes releasing on January 13 and February 17, 2025, respectively, on BBC iPlayer.

## Music

The Japanese opening themes are "Will" (意思, Ishi) by Ive for 22 episodes and "Only One Story" (たったひとつの物語, Just One Story) by Zerobaseone. The Japanese ending themes are "Let Me Battle" (バトルさせてください, Batoru Sasetekudasai) by 9Lana for 22 episodes and "Sparkle!" (ピッカーン！, Pikkān!) by Giga, TeddyLoid and Sakurazaka46 featuring Rina Matsuda and Hikaru Morita. The English opening theme is "My Favorite Pokemon" by Isaiah Tyrell Boyd and Haven Paschall.

## Critical reception

In a February 2025 review for IGN, Kirsten Carey gave the first half of The Search for Laqua a score of 5 out of 10, saying that the season "largely ditches the series' innovations in favor of a format that's as old as Ash, Misty, and Brock's tussles with Team Rocket". The first eleven episodes of the season received a "A" score at Anime News Network.